I’m a dog expert, 4 breeds to get if you’re lazy, hate mess & don’t want to spend HOURS training them to poo outside
IF you’ve got your heart set on adopting a dog there’s hundreds of beautiful breeds to choose from, but what can you really handle?
Whether you’re a neat freak, a lazy bones or a new mum looking for a loyal friend for the kids, there’s an expert on hand to tell you exactly which dog breed to bag.
Paula Stewart, Director of the famous Animal Talent Agency, has been casting man’s best friend in TV and movies for years.
There’s nothing she doesn’t know about our furry pals and how to find a puppy match made in heaven.
If you’re after an easy ride, here’s what she recommends…
A total breeze to train
“If you don’t want to spend hours teaching your pup to poo outside, get a Poodle,” advises Paula. “They learn lessons in minutes and never forget your commands.”
But clever breeds like Poodles, Collies and Labradors come with a big warning…
“They might seem a breeze, but don’t let them fool you – these dogs will try and outwit you in the sneakiest ways,” she claims.
“Pop a camera in your home and watch them break every rule when they’re alone.
“To combat naughtiness, make sure they have plenty of exercise and put out puzzles and brain-teasing treat toys when you’re away,” she adds. “Having a dog is like having a toddler – you’ve got to keep them entertained.”
The couch potato pup
“It’s true that dogs need exercise everyday to keep them happy and healthy – but not all of them enjoy it,” laughs Paula.
“If you’re a bit of a lazy bones who likes TV shows over a trek, get yourself an English Bulldog.
“They love lounging and don’t need as much exercise as energetic breeds like Spaniels and Terriers.
“In fact, too much exercise can be bad for them because of their squashed airway.
Despite their racing roots, Greyhounds too will happily laze around with you all day long.
Paula adds: “Greyhounds run so fast you’ll blink and miss them, but they’ve only got about 20 minutes in the tank.
“Once they’re out of energy they’ll sleep all day and you won’t be able to budge them out of bed.”
Best for babies
“If you can’t afford a nanny, I’ve got the perfect breed who’ll take care of your kids for free,” teases Paula.
“Staffordshire Bull Terriers [or Staffies, for short] have a bad reputation because of a few poor owners, but they are the sweetest, most caring breed you could wish for.
“People call them the ‘nanny dog’ because they’re so gentle and protective of their family. If you look after them, they’ll look after you.”
Mess-free mongrels
“You have to expect some mess if you’ve got a dog – they can’t help their dribbly jowls and shedding fur,” exclaims Paula.
“If you’re a real stickler and hate hoovering with a passion, pick a Chinese Crested because they literally don’t have hair.”
But this breed does have a downfall, says Paula: “While you won’t have hair all over the carpet, you’ll have to deal with their grease marks instead – pick your poison!”